As March rolls in and South Africa begins its transition from summer into autumn, the days become noticeably shorter and the evenings cooler. While this change may feel refreshing for us, it also signals a shift in routine for our furry companions. Dogs are creatures of habit, and changes in daylight, temperature, and schedules can impact their mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. To keep your dog happy and healthy, it’s important to adjust their daily routine in line with the changing season.
1. Adjust Walking Times
In summer, early morning or evening walks help avoid the heat. In March, however, mornings and evenings can start to feel chilly, and daylight hours shrink. Consider shifting walks slightly later in the morning or earlier in the evening when there’s still enough natural light and it’s warmer. This not only ensures visibility for both of you but also helps keep your dog from catching a chill, especially smaller or short-haired breeds.
If your work schedule doesn’t allow much flexibility, consider investing in a reflective leash, collar, or harness, and always carry a torch or use a headlamp when walking in low-light conditions.
2. Watch Their Activity Levels
Some dogs become less active as the days shorten, while others get bursts of energy during cooler weather. Either way, it’s a great time to reassess your dog’s exercise routine. If outdoor playtime is getting shorter, introduce indoor enrichment to keep them stimulated. Try puzzle toys, training games, or even a bit of light obedience refresher work to keep their minds sharp and bodies moving.
3. Create a Cozy Sleeping Space
As temperatures dip in the evenings, your dog might need a warmer, more insulated sleeping area. Move their bed away from cold tiles, open windows, or draughty areas. Consider using a thicker dog blanket or a raised dog bed to keep them off the cold floor. Older dogs or short-haired breeds are especially sensitive to temperature changes and may benefit from added warmth.
4. Monitor Their Diet
As routines change, your dog’s dietary needs might shift too. If they’re becoming less active, you may need to reduce food slightly to prevent unwanted weight gain. On the other hand, if they’re enjoying more brisk walks or cooler-weather play, they might need a small increase in calories. Keep an eye on their weight and energy levels, and consult your vet if you’re unsure.
5. Adapt Bathing and Grooming
With cooler weather coming, it’s important to keep your dog dry and warm after baths. Bath them earlier in the day so they have time to dry off before it gets cold. If your dog sheds seasonally, brushing them regularly in March can help manage the change in coat and reduce loose fur around the house.
6. Stay on Top of Health Care
Even as summer ends, ticks, fleas, and other parasites may still be active. Keep up with your dog’s parasite prevention and consider a seasonal health check-up, especially if they’re senior or have health concerns.
Conclusion
The changing season offers a perfect opportunity to reassess and refresh your dog’s routine. By making small adjustments to walking times, diet, sleep arrangements, and play habits, you can help your dog transition comfortably into the shorter days and cooler evenings of autumn. With a little planning, March can be a month of comfort and balance for both you and your canine companion.
